1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2007 Proton Gen
To start off, 2007 Proton Gen is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Caterham 1700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Caterham 1700 would be higher. At 1,692 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Caterham 1700 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2007 Proton Gen. (109 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2007 Proton Gen.
Because 1985 Caterham 1700 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1985 Caterham 1700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Proton Gen, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1985 Caterham 1700 (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Proton Gen. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Caterham 1700 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Proton Gen. 2007 Proton Gen has automatic transmission and 1985 Caterham 1700 has manual transmission. 1985 Caterham 1700 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Proton Gen will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2007 Proton Gen | |
| Make | Caterham | Proton |
| Model | 1700 | Gen |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2007 |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2610 mm |
